How to Open a Business Bank Account

Opening a business bank account is a critical task for a new business owner. Even if you are a sole proprietor, having a business account is the best way for you to keep track of your finances and your business records. Putting this simple barrier between your personal and professional finances helps to make day-to-day transactions easy to follow and document.

"It is just good accounting practice to keep your business [finances] separate from your personal, and setting up a business checking account is the first step to making this possible," said Kevin Ravenscroft, president of Timberwood Bank in Tomah, Wisconsin. "You can track your income and expenses for IRS filing purposes, more easily identify potential business deductions from the IRS, maintain clear records for potential audits, and you may be able to limit your personal liability."

Choosing a bank and account services

Business banking is different from consumer banking, so the bank where you have your personal checking account may not necessarily be the right one for your business. When deciding where to open your business account, consider the financial institutions in your area. Talk with each of them to discover their specialty and see if it is a fit for your company. Some banks are small business specialists, whereas others focus on property or equipment loans.

Today's business banking customers can also find lines of credit and cash management services in addition to checking accounts. Starting a relationship with bank personnel familiar with your field or industry gives you another resource for inquiries and the ability to tap into their experience and expertise when it is needed. They may have suggestions or be aware of programs that you did not know about to make your business bigger and better. However, be aware that some bankers might try to encourage you to use their products and services — even if you don't necessarily need them — just to make more money. Be sure to do your research and ask questions so that you understand what you're signing up for.

Business banking costs

Many banks offer business checking accounts for free, with a minimum balance requirement and a limited number of transactions. At JPMorgan Chase & Co., for example, business owners with revenues of up to $10 million can open an account with just $25. At First National Bank of Omaha, business owners can take advantage of a Business First Free Checking account that requires a $100 minimum opening balance but has no minimum balance requirement.

As your business grows, you may need to change the type of checking account your business uses. While enhanced accounts might also charge a fee, the benefits of being able to handle an increased number of transactions efficiently and having access to more bank services offsets the cost. However, David Ely, professor of finance at San Diego State University, cautioned business owners to keep the total cost of balance requirements and fees in mind.

"You're not just looking at the terms of the deposit accounts, but also look at it in terms of fees," Ely told Business News Daily. "Consider the cost of the full relationship."

What you need to open your account

Documentation requirements for a business bank account vary depending on the type of business. Sole proprietors are considered more like a consumer, so required documents should be minimal: A tax ID and social security number are generally all you need. Corporations, however, need more documentation, including articles of incorporation and a certificate of good standing with the state.

If you are using a name other than your own, known as a "doing business as" (DBA) name, you need to register that name with the state and provide the form to the bank. You may also need to provide proof of address, usually a bill received at your address or some state communication addressed to your company.

By opening a business bank account, you can give your small business a firm foundation as it succeeds and grows. If you are unsure of what type of account you need or what's required to open an account, speak with a financial professional in your area.

With an Associate's Degree in Business Management and nearly twenty years in senior management positions, Marci brings a real life perspective to her articles about business and leadership. She began freelancing in 2012 and became a contributing writer for Business News Daily in 2015.